Strong support again this year for annual Goodfellows campaign

Jody Shepley and Joan Jones were two of the volunteers that helped out the AAM Goodfellows Dec. 22.

By Ron Giofu

The AAM Goodfellows were busy Tuesday and Wednesday trying to make Christmas brighter for local residents who are less fortunate.

Boxes were packed with food last Tuesday afternoon at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Richmond St. with volunteers helping to haul in the food items and place them in boxes before they were distributed at the same location Wednesday morning.

There were also a large number of toys donated that were distributed to those with children.

Margaret Sprague, a volunteer with the Goodfellows, said there were 129 boxes distributed this year.

“People have been very generous in the community,” said Sprague.

The AAM Goodfellows handed out 141 boxes in 2014 and 149 in 2013.

Sprague added they raised the “average number” in paper sales, which took place earlier in December. Last year’s sales raised approximately $12,000 in revenue with another $6,000 in private donations.

The number of volunteers that assist are always heartwarming, she noted.

“There are people always willing to help in the community,” Sprague added, pointing out students, organizations and sports teams often show up. Many young people are getting their community hours needed for high school graduation, she added.

“It’s nice to see the younger generation,” she said, noting there are three generations of some families that volunteer. “Young people are coming in.”

Rennie Rota of Sobeys assists in providing the food. Sprague estimated there was enough food provided to allow families to have three meals over the Christmas holidays.

Sprague emphasized the Goodfellows’ gratitude for the support of the community.